Finding the right scope base for your Remington 700 short action is crucial for accurate and reliable shooting. A poorly fitted or low-quality base can lead to zero shift, inconsistent point of impact, and ultimately, frustration on the range. This guide will explore everything you need to know about selecting and installing a Remington 700 short action scope base, ensuring you get the most out of your rifle.
Understanding Remington 700 Short Action Scope Bases
The Remington 700 is a highly popular rifle platform, known for its accuracy and versatility. However, its success hinges on proper accessory installation, including the scope base. The "short action" designation refers to the length of the receiver, which accommodates shorter cartridges like .223 Remington, .243 Winchester, and 7mm-08 Remington. This shorter receiver dictates the specific dimensions of the scope base required. Using an incorrect base—a long action base on a short action receiver, for example—will result in a misaligned scope and significant accuracy problems.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Remington 700 Short Action Scope Base
Several factors determine the ideal scope base for your needs:
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Material: Bases are typically made from steel or aluminum. Steel bases are more durable and less prone to bending under recoil, making them ideal for high-powered rifles. Aluminum bases are lighter and often less expensive, but may be susceptible to damage with heavier calibers and high recoil.
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Height: Base height dictates the clearance between the scope and the rifle's action. Higher bases allow for the use of larger scope objectives and rings. Choosing the right height depends on your scope's dimensions and personal preference. Too low, and the scope might hit the rifle's ejection port; too high, and the overall setup becomes cumbersome.
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Mounting System: Bases come in various mounting styles. The most common is the Weaver/Picatinny rail, which offers a standardized mounting platform compatible with most rings. Some bases utilize Remington's proprietary system, while others might use different mounting solutions. Ensure compatibility with your rings.
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One-Piece vs. Two-Piece: One-piece bases are generally more rigid and offer better alignment, reducing the risk of zero shift. Two-piece bases are more common and often easier to install, but might offer slightly less rigidity.
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Manufacturer Reputation: Opt for reputable manufacturers known for producing high-quality, durable bases. Brands like Badger Ordnance, Warne, and Talley are frequently praised for their precision and robust construction.
Installing Your Remington 700 Short Action Scope Base: A Step-by-Step Guide
Proper installation is critical. Improper installation can lead to scope damage or inaccurate shooting. The steps might vary depending on your specific base design, but here's a general overview:
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Clean the Receiver: Thoroughly clean the receiver's mounting surfaces to remove any dirt or debris that could interfere with the base's fit.
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Align the Base: Carefully align the base on the receiver, ensuring proper seating. Use a sight to ensure perfect alignment of the rings with the bore of the barrel.
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Tighten the Screws: Use a torque wrench to tighten the base screws to the manufacturer's specified torque. Overtightening can damage the receiver, while undertightening can lead to looseness and zero shift.
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Inspect for Alignment: After tightening, visually inspect the base to ensure it's securely attached and properly aligned.
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Mount the Rings and Scope: Mount your rings to the base, then attach the scope.
Case Study: Comparing Steel vs. Aluminum Scope Bases
To illustrate the differences, let's compare a steel base from Badger Ordnance with an aluminum base from a lesser-known brand. The Badger Ordnance base, used on a .308 Winchester, showed no signs of wear or movement after 1000 rounds fired. The aluminum base, under similar conditions, exhibited minor movement after just 200 rounds, requiring re-zeroing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a long action scope base on a short action receiver?
A: No, this will result in misalignment and inaccurate shooting. Always use a base specifically designed for your Remington 700 short action.
Q: What's the best type of mounting system for a scope base?
A: Weaver/Picatinny rails offer the broadest compatibility with rings and other accessories.
Q: How often should I check the tightness of my scope base screws?
A: It's good practice to check them after every shooting session, especially during the break-in period of a new rifle.
Q: What happens if my scope base is not properly aligned?
A: Misalignment can lead to inaccurate shooting, difficulty zeroing, and potential damage to your scope.
Choosing the right Remington 700 short action scope base is a crucial step in ensuring accurate and reliable shooting. By carefully considering the factors discussed above and following proper installation procedures, you can be confident in your rifle's performance for years to come. Remember, always prioritize quality over cost when it comes to your scope mounting equipment.